Rankings

azur 100 - top employers 2011

azur100 annually presents the most popular 100 employers for young professionals such as law firms, companies, public authorities and independent auditing firms, all of them working predominantly in the legal sector or maintaining a legal department . Key criteria were training, salary, promotion prospects, balance of work and leisure and professional reputation, all of them assumed as particularly important for young professionals. According to the survey P+P belongs to the TOP30 employers. In particular, P+P received praises for the intense and excellent further education opportunities, the flexibility in terms of part-time work, the excellent personal mentoring and, last but not least, early assumption of responsibility and involvement in projects.

P+P Law Firm of the Year 2010 in Germany

P+P has been awarded "Private equity law firm of the year 2010" and "Private funds law firm of the year 2010" by ACQ. This award confirms our market leading position in Germany, based on the firm's deep industry knowledge and decades of experiences. Our services include fund formation work for a broad range of the best-known international and German private fund sponsors, as well as boutique firms.

Best Law Firm in Germany for Alternative Dispute Resolution Excellence and M&A Legal Work

Corporate International Magazine, specializing in legal issues, named P+P the "Best Law Firm in Germany for Alternative Dispute Resolution" and "Best Law Firm in Germany for M&A Legal Work" for its excellence and comprising M&A competence. A research team has been researching thousands of law firms across the globe, sourcing the very best law firms. The six firms that were nominated were then evaluated further by an expert panel to decide on the most deserving winner of the award. In addition to professional competence, another key criterion was how the firm had coped with the adverse conditions of the past year and demonstrated excellence to its clients.

WHO'S WHO LEGAL, Germany 2012

For the first time, the highly respected international guide that is the official research partner of The International Bar Association (IBA) has published a German edition with the leading experts in more than 30 jurisdictions. P+P is represented with 11 partners, of whom the following partners excelled in various practice areas: Matthias Bruse, Michael Best, Reinhard Pöllath and Andreas Rodin.

In the practice area corporate governance, Reinhard Pöllath is a "big name in German corporate law … and hugely knowledgeable in this sector", as is the case for his tax expertise, for which he is known as an "industry force with over 30 years experience where he has assisted in structuring and reviewing more than 100 private equity funds." Also recommended as a "recognized industry expert" is his "excellent" colleague Richard Engl, as well as Thomas Töben, who is known for his debt restructuring and refinancing expertise. Andreas Rodin is "brilliant for private equity work, as is Michael Best", who is especially known for his advice on the structural tax aspects of private equity funds. Frankfurt partner Wolfgang Tischbirek is "admired for the breadth of his practice".
In the M&A sector, again, Reinhard Pöllath is "legendary" and a "renowned industry specialist". He is joined by the "outstanding" Matthias Bruse, who is "lauded for his technical ability".
P+P also excels in the private funds area as "one of the best firms in Germany for this work" with Patricia Volhard, Andreas Rodin, Michael Best and Amos Veith as distinguished experts in this field.
In real estate, P+P partner Stefan Lebek is "very highly regarded", as is his Munich colleague Wolfram Pätzold, who was "repeatedly mentioned to researchers for work in complex real estate transactions".

Legal Experts EMEA Europe, Middle East & Africa 2012

This international guide designates the leading legal experts of more than 40 countries in the European, Middle Eastern and African regions. In Germany, 13 P+P partners were identified as being highly recommended in their particular practice areas:

• Real Estate: Matthias Durst, Carsten Führling, Stefan Lebek, Wolfram Pätzold
• Corporate and M&A: Matthias Bruse, Reinhard Pöllath, Philipp von Braunschweig, Jan Wildberger
• Tax: Michael Best, Pia Dorfmueller, Richard Engl, Andreas Rodin, Thomas Töben

PLC Practical Law, Private Client Guide 2011/2012

According to this internationally known guide, P+P is a "highly recommended" law firm for its private client advice, with Munich P+P partner Matthias Bruse and Berlin partner Andreas Richter listed as leading experts in this specialized area. Moreover, Andreas Richter was asked to contribute the German chapter to provide a detailed overview of complex issues and changes in the law.

Wirtschaftswoche Guide 2012 M&A und Corporate Finance

The Handelsblatt publishing group publishes on an annual basis their assessment of 100 major subsidiaries, the 100 most important corporate finance advisory and investment banking as well as 200 service providers with profiles of 600 leading figures, who play an important role within the transactional sector as problem solvers: P+P is represented with five professionals from the Munich office: Matthias Bruse, Philipp von Braunschweig, Andrea von Drygalski, Otto Haberstock and Reinhard Pöllath.

JUVE Handbuch Wirtschaftskanzleien 2011/2012

For the edition of this handbook about 12,000 personal or written interviews with piers and clients at home and abroad has been evaluated and analysed. The key element is the assessment of the market position of more than 800 law firms in Germany.
According to JUVE, P+P belongs to the leading firms in Germany in the areas of succession, trusts and estates, foundations, investment funds and fund structuring, and venture capital. It is recommended in all of its other core areas, including M&A, private equity, real estate law and tax law. The strategic acquisition of new partners has led to a broadening of the practice areas, eg in corporate law with the 'highly competent and effective' Wolfgang Grobecker or the new real estate partner Wolfram Pätzold in Munich and in the Frankfurt office by Pia Dorfmueller for the area of international corporate tax law, and Jan Wildberger for his M&A and private equity transactions practice.
Overall, - as last year - more than two-thirds of all partners have been particularly recommended in their practice areas, of which five partners are listed as truly leading in their respective practice areas. The 'independent firm that is networked with leading, often smaller specialist firms abroad very well,' has a leading practice in advising private clients, succession and foundation issues and is also perceived as highly qualified in advising large charitable foundations. The law firm has also excellent know-how in tax law, 'uniquely networking with the corporate law practice as well as with private equity specialists'. Name partner Reinhard Pöllath and Andreas Richter ('absolute specialist in family trusts') are excelled as two leading practitioners with excellent connections, who advise the richest families in Germany. Frequently recommended experts include the Munich junior partner Stephan Viskorf ('good designer and innovative tax advice') and Frankfurt partner Andreas Rodin.
The latter is also named as one of the leading experts in the field of investment funds and fund structuring. He impresses clients and colleagues with his incredible problem solving skills and his high authority in negotiations. His colleague Patricia Volhard is well-known as an 'expert in regulatory law, factual, very collegial' and clients praise her high level of expertise in investment law. In addition, newcomer Peter Bujotzek attracts the market's attention for his expertise.
The M&A practice group has significantly broadened its expertise with the highly estimated corporate law expert Wolfgang Grobecker, as well as by the arrival of Jan Wildberger in Frankfurt. As in previous years, frequently recommended transaction lawyers include Reinhard Pöllath, Andrea von Drygalski ('highly qualified and pleasant'), Philip von Braunschweig ('excellent quality, his team makes anything possible'), Otto Haberstock ('engaged and reliable'), Andreas Junius, Andres Schollmeier ('very talented, excellent in negotiations') and Matthias Bruse ('truly excellent').
Matthias Bruse is also listed as a leading name for private equity transactions and shines as a 'genuine all-rounder with strong tax knowledge'. Other 'frequently recommended lawyers include Andrea von Drygalski, Otto Haberstock, Philipp von Braunschweig ('excellent quality, pragmatic, practical work'), Michael Inhester, Christian Tönies and Benedikt Hohaus ('makes always a good job for CEOs'). Benedikt is in particular known for his management participation advice. Nowadays, other firms dabble in that particular niche market, reasoning 'to break the dominance of Hohaus' market position', which clearly demonstrates his unique position in the German market. Also new partner Jan Wildberger in the Frankfurt office impressed the market with his management consulting.
In the real estate business, all P+P practice group partners are recommended experts with the leading expert Stefan Lebek as primus inter pares. He is recognized as 'one of the best' with 'an impressive market overview and expertise'. His colleagues Carsten Führling and Matthias Durst ('truly competent and agreeable negotiating partner') are listed as frequently recommended lawyers. In addition, the win of the new partner Wolfram Pätzold in the Munich office turns out as a great strategic asset with positive synergies between the offices.
Last but not least, P+P partner Thomas Töben is a leading expert in tax law, another core practice area of the firm. The firm's tax competences include the comprehensive advice of German and foreign private equity and real estate funds, management and investors in Germany. The firm is also known for its advice to a number of very important private and institutional investors and investment banks. In addition, Frankfurt partner Pia Dorfmueller's competence in international corporate tax law increases the firm's field of activity . Frequently recommended tax lawyers include Reinhard Pöllath, Andreas Rodin, Wolfgang Tischbirek, Richard Engl and Michael Best, who is according to clients 'very highly recommended for his transactions practice.'

Expert Guides: Guide to the World's leading Mergers & Acquisitions Lawyers, ed. 2011

More than 4,000 questionnaires were sent to senior practitioners and in-house counsel asking them to nominate leading practitioners. As a result, P+P Munich partners Matthias Bruse and Reinhard Pöllath were selected to belong to the leading M&A lawyers in Germany.

Who's Who Legal Corporate Tax 2011

With more than 15 years experience, the 'Who's Who Legal' series has become a prominent and serious guide in the legal market. In their 2011 Corporate Tax edition, five P+P partners were listed as leaders in their field: Munich partners Richard Engl, Reinhard Pöllath, Berlin partner Thomas Töben and Frankfurt partner Andreas Rodin and Of Counsel Wolfgang Tischbirek.

International Financial Law Review IFLR - 2012

According to the renowned guide, P+P belongs to the leading firms for private equity and M&A in Germany with Matthias Bruse and Otto Haberstock as leading lawyers in these fields.
"P+P has its fans". Competitors confirm "P+P are very strong… they do a really good job." Moreover, the corporate group has expanded significantly in 2011…". The "market feedback on the firm is positive" and P+P is "renowned for representing management in private equity deals and this is where peers say it excels … They have huge market share in representing management teams, probably one of the best two funds practices in Germany…". The firm is "well placed, you certainly see them lot".
Matthias Bruse receives special praise: "There is one specific guy that is really driving their business there and that is Bruse. He is certainly a big name and a good partner". Other mentioned lawyers include P+P partners Wolfgang Grobecker, Benedikt Hohaus, Jens Hörmann, Christian Tönies, Andreas Rodin, Patricia Volhard, Jan Wildberger, and counsels Barbara Koch-Schulte and Eva Nase.

Tax Controversy Leaders: The comprehensive guide to the world's leading tax controversy advisers, ed. 2012

The guide, published by the renowned International Tax Review, presents the leading tax dispute resolution lawyers and advisers in the world. Inclusion in the guide is based on evidence of outstanding success in the last year and consistently positive feedback from peers and clients.
In Germany, two P+P professionals has been elected to belong to the best tax dispute resolution lawyers: Berlin partner Dieter Birk and associate Georg Specker.

The European Legal 500, US ed. 2011

Established in 1987, the publisher of the Legal 500 series provides analyses and information on law firms in over 100 countries around the world through various publications. The 2011 US edition of "The European Legal 500" included P+P as a leading firm in the company's core practice areas, such as corporate and M&A (mid-sized deals), investment funds, private equity, real estate and construction, and tax. Frankfurt partners Andreas Rodin and Patricia Volhard are listed as 'leading individuals' for their private equity know-how.
The firm "has a good reputation for advising on mid-cap deals, while the focus on private equity-related matters brings in significant work… Wolfgang Grobecker joined from Hengeler Mueller in an attempt to enhance corporate capability".
The investment funds team "is led by Andreas Rodin, who has an excellent reputation in fund structuring, as well as Uwe Bärenz and the well-respected Patricia Volhard". P+P is also "notable for its focus on innovative private equity funds". Key figures are the "hardworking Andreas Rodin and Otto Haberstock", as well as Matthias Bruse and Michael Inhester. In the real estate field, the team "features excellent practitioners, such as outstanding lawyer and negotiator Matthias Durst, Stefan Lebek and Carsten Führling". In tax, P+P "is known for its private equity and M&A-related tax work… The Munich team has an excellent reputation, and the Berlin and Frankfurt offices are also highly regarded. Especially recommended partners include Andreas Rodin, Thomas Töben and Alexander Pupeter.

International Tax Review - World Tax 2012

According to the renowned guide P+P belongs to the leading tax firms in Germany.
P+P is "seen by its peers as a market leader in fund structuring work, for which it has a strong team in Frankfurt. The group has expanded to provide advice across most areas of corporate tax, while the Berlin branch has a growing real estate and litigation practice". Specifically mentioned were the following experts: Munich partners Michael Best, Benedikt Hohaus, Stephan Viskorf and Franfurt partner Pia Dorfmueller, as well as Berlin partner Uwe Bärenz, counsels Tarek Mardini (Berlin) and Barbara Koch-Schulte (Munich).

Expert Guides: Guide to the World's leading Trusts and Estates Practitioners, ed. 2011

Expert Guides, one of the international legal market's leading guide, has selected four P+P partners to belong to the top practitioners in Germany in the field of trusts and estates: Munich partners Reinhard Pöllath, Christoph Philipp, and Stephan Viskorf as well as Berlin partner Andreas Richter, who additionally contributed with a national overview to the guide.

Handelsblatt/Legal Success - Best Lawyers: Top Legal Experts in Germany (June 2011)

Exclusively for the German Handelsblatt/Legal Success magazine, American publisher 'Best Lawyers' identified a list of top commercial lawyers in 41 practice areas. The research team interviewed renowned experts and colleagues for their recommendations on which lawyers outside their own team they would refer work to if they could not take on the client themselves. More than half of P+P partners are listed as belonging to the leading experts in Germany, mostly in more than one practice area.
Additionally, Michael Inhester has been nominated the 'Best Lawyers' 2011 München Venture Capital Lawyer of the Year' and Reinhard Pöllath has been named the 'Best Layers' 2011 München Corporate Lawyer of the Year'. Other recommended lawyers include:

• Michael Best for tax
• Matthias Bruse for corporate, M&A, private equity
• Philipp von Braunschweig for M&A
• Andrea von Drygalski for corporate, M&A
• Richard Engl for tax
• Wolfgang Grobecker for M&A
• Otto Haberstock for M&A, private equity, venture capital
• Michael Inhester for M&A, private equity, venture capital
• Wolfram Pätzold for real estate
• Reinhard Pöllath for arbitration and mediation, corporate, M&A, tax, trusts and estates
• Andreas Rodin for private equity, private funds, tax
• Frank Thiäner for M&A, private equity
• Thomas Töben for tax
• Stephan Viskorf for tax

Chambers Europe 2011 - Europe's Leading Lawyers for Business

According to the renowned guide, P+P is a first tier firm in private equity and fund formation and also recommended in the fields of M&A/corporate, investment funds, real estate and tax. Munich partner Matthias Bruse and Frankfurt partner Andreas Rodin are excelled in more than one practice areas for their comprising top expertise. In detail, P+P and its partners are ranked as follows:
In M&A/corporate, P+P "is a strong player in the market, partly thanks to its reputation on the fund and tax structuring side". In particular, Matthias Bruse "has established a strong standing and has caught the market´s eye for years". This applies also to his private equity expertise, where Matthias is "a leading figure, … whom sources say they would hire tomorrow", while Benedikt Hohaus "is extremely highly regarded as an adviser to management on participation programmes", as is Philipp von Braunschweig for his expertise in management equity programmes. Frankfurt's new partner Jan Wildberger is recommended for his "methodical and client-orientated" approach. Other recommended lawyers include Andrea von Drygalski, who "has advised on significant deals" and Otto Haberstock. The leading Munich partner Reinhard Pöllath is regarded as "a highly valued boardroom adviser widely considered an institution in this field".
Moreover, P+P has "an outstanding reputation for fund formation, as well as closed funds and real estate funds". Berlin partner Amos Veith "knows the landscape of what investors in Europe and elsewhere need", whereas Patricia Volhard is recommended for her "corporate and regulatory issues related to the structure of funds". Frankfurt partner Andreas Rodin is a "major figure within fund formation in Germany". Clients commented: "Whenever I mentioned that our fund had been structured by Andreas Rodin…, they had no further questions. It was like a quality stamp".
Andreas Rodin is also ranked as a leading lawyer in tax. The firm´s team of impressive consultants includes Michael Best who is well-known for his "deep expertise in the private equity industry and the speed of his responses". Richard Engl is noted for his "substantial corporate tax practice" while "prominent adviser" Thomas Töben "focuses on areas including M&A, restructuring and the real estate sector". Clients evaluate this tax team as an "absolutely cutting-edge" operation with "unrivalled experience dealing with private equity situations".
Also in real estate, market observers applaud the "broad capabilities and strength in drafting lease agreements. The team capitalises in the firm's reputation in funds and private equity". Berlin partner Matthias Durst leads many of P+P's top-end transactional mandates. Clients comment "if it seems like to get complicated, he´s the guy to go to". Also Stefan Lebek is held in "high esteem" and Carsten Führling "gets straight to the point" while new partner Wolfram Pätzold is admired by clients for his ability of gaining "quickly an overview of the whole deal" and "his balance of fairness and toughness in negotiations".

PLC - Tax on Transactions - The law and leading lawyers worldwide, edition 2011/2012

According to this renowned guide, P+P belongs to the highly recommended law firms for its tax practice work. P+P Munich partners Michael Best, Richard Engl, Reinhard Pöllath and Berlin partner Thomas Töben were singled out among the top tax experts in Germany.

JUVE German Commercial Law Firms, Edition 2011

JUVE's German Commercial Law Firms is a comprising analysis of Germany as Europe's largest legal market covering 600 law firms.
P+P has achieved a first tier position for company succession and trusts; venture capital, fund formation, and is highly recommended for all its other core practice areas, including private equity, transactions, real estate and tax. The firm's strong point is the combination of legal and tax advice, and the successful completion of each others practice areas, such as fund advice, real estate and advice to high-net-worth-private investors.
P+P has both Andreas Richter and Reinhard Pöllath as leading lawyers in the fields of company succession and trusts, as well as Thomas Töben and Reinhard Pöllath as leading for tax advice and leading lawyer Stefan Lebek in the fields of real estate, whereas Matthias Bruse has been recognized as a leading lawyer for his expertise in private equity transactions.
In total, two thirds of all P+P partners are ranked as leading or highly recommended experts in their respective fields of practice.
Company succession and trust are mentioned as one of P+P´s driving force. The firm offers "leading practice … on wealth and succession planning as well as trusts … [and] has excellent contacts to the largest German family companies". Furthermore, "the firm has stepped up its activities in charity law - the management of large portfolios with strong corporate elements gained in significance". In addition, the company succession practice provides the investment fund team with clients. Leading or recommended lawyers include Berlin partner Andreas Richter, Munich based Reinhard Pöllath and Matthias Bruse and Frankfurt partner Andreas Rodin.
Thanks to Andreas ("highly qualified"), P+P has also an "outstanding reputation" for advice on fund structuring". He is the one who sets "standards in the industry". Another recommended lawyer for investment law is Patricia Volhard. P+P is "able to score points with its expertise in the domain of nonregulated special funds, especially institutional investors, but also high-net-worth clients". P+P widened its broad spectrum in gaining "a good position in restructuring portfolios".
Last, but not least, Andreas Rodin is one among six mentioned P+P partners for tax advice with Berlin partner Thomas Töben and Munich partner Reinhard Pöllath as leading experts. Other recommended lawyers include Michael Best, Richard Engl and Wolfgang Tischbirek. In addition, the firm builds up corporate tax law advice with younger lawyers. Tax counsel Stephan Viskorf is "already being tipped as the firm´s best kept secret".
The firm offers "top-level tax advisory practice for investments and projects of ultra-high-net-worth private individuals and is renowned for its "excellently" position for topics such as "fund structuring and tax advice to funds and their managers", its "all-round advice to German and foreign private equity and real estate funds, management and investors in Germany" and corporate tax law as well as tax litigation."
In M&A, P+P has "outstanding deal lawyers" and benefits from the "outstanding individual reputations of its partners". Individual lawyers continue to be warmly recommended by clients, as is Andrea von Drygalski, Reinhard Pöllath, Philipp von Braunschweig ('specialist expertise, confident manner'), Otto Haberstock ('goal-oriented, quickly brings deals to a conclusion') and Andreas Junius ('very good, internationally experienced').
The "respected" Wolfgang Grobecker ('sensational reaction times, excellent expertise and experience as well as a high level of dedication') "has given P+P a notable practice in the field of stock corporation". His arrival "adds a further dimension to the M&A practice". He stands for "specifically top-level, stand-alone corporate and corporation law advice".
His Munich colleague Matthias Bruse ('always a pleasure negotiating with him') is renowned as a "M&A allrounder with specialist knowledge in tax".
Moreover, Matthias is one of the leading lawyers for his private equity transactional practice. Other recommended lawyers include Andrea von Drygalski, Otto Haberstock ('confident man of action'), Philipp von Braunschweig ('very good and experienced'), Benedikt Hohaus ('for management participations'), Christian Tönies, together with Michael Inhester ('always up-to-date in current issues'). Michael is also "widely praised by clients" for his venture capital expertise; which is the reason that this practice area "continues to grow", despite the market trend over the past year.
P+P is also recommended for its real estate practice focusing on transactions (M&A) as well as finance and project development. Especially recommended lawyers include Berlin partners Carsten Führling, Matthias Durst ('I would always choose him when the opposing side looks like being difficult') and Stefan Lebek ('excellent economic understanding'), who is regarded as one of the leading lawyers in Germany. Specializing in construction with its expertise in finance and marketing the firm sets itself apart from competitors. Additionally, P+P "boosted its real estate practice" with Munich new partner Wolfram Pätzold.

WHO'S WHO LEGAL - Real Estate 2011

The independent research of the renowned guide has listed lawyers of the highest quality from around the world. The result is summarized in this guide. P+P Berlin partner Stefan Lebek has been elected as one of the top lawyers for Real Estate in Germany.

Legal Media Group Expert Guides: The Best of the Best 2011

The only international guide identifies the world's leading 25 practitioners across 19 areas of law. Munich P+P partner Reinhard Pöllath belongs to 'The Best of the Best' in Germany for his M&A expertise.

WHO'S WHO LEGAL - Mergers & Acquisitions 2011

This renowned guide has identified 617 experts in 78 jurisdictions; all of the accepted nominees are listed without charge. It is impossible to buy entry into the guide. According to the guide, peers and clients have voted P+P partner Reinhard Pöllath as one of the M&A leaders in Germany.

International Tax Review (ITR), Transactional Tax Survey, March 2011

ITR annually lists the 'best of the best' in the practice area of transactional tax advice. Once again in 2011, P+P belongs to the law firms in Germany ranked among the exclusive circle.

Expert Guides: Guide to the World's leading Tax Advisers, ed. 2011

The international guide focuses on legal individuals considered by clients and peers to be the best in their field. The researchers have listed seven P+P partners as leaders in Germany for their tax advice: Michael Best, Matthias Bruse, Richard Engl, Reinhard Pöllath (all Munich), Andreas Rodin, Wolfgang Tischbirek (both Frankfurt) and Thomas Töben (Berlin).

PLC Cross-border Handbooks Private Clients, ed. 2011

P+P has been highly recommended for its private client practice with P+P Munich partner Matthias Bruse and Berlin partner Andreas Richter listed among the top experts in Germany. In addition, Andreas Richter contributed the German chapter answering questions on tax and legal German jurisdiction.

European Legal Experts 2011

This renowned guide provides an overview of the leading legal professionals in Europe, Middle East and Africa. Every expert featured in this book has been identified by researchers as being highly recommended in their particular areas of practice. In Germany, P+P contributed with 10 partners with Andreas Rodin listed for two practice areas:

• Corporate and M&A: Philipp von Braunschweig, Matthias Bruse, Andreas Rodin
• Tax: Michael Best, Richard Engl, Andreas Rodin, Wolfgang Tischbirek, Thomas Töben
• Construction and real estate: Matthias Durst, Carsten Führling, Stefan Lebek

The International Who's Who Legal Private Funds 2011

Researchers of the well-known guide have canvassed and analysed the opinions of clients and peers from around the world. The result is summoned in this guide.
In Germany, P+P is represented with four lawyers: P+P Munich partners Michael Best and Matthias Bruse, as well as Frankfurt partners Patricia Volhard and Andreas Rodin. Andreas is marked as "one of the best by far in the country and he can solve the tax problems of investors coming into Germany".

JUVE Handbook - German edition 2010/2011

In the current edition of the JUVE German Commercial Law Firms Handbook 2010/2011, P+P is listed as one of the leading law firms for company succession/estates and trusts. P+P is also recommended as a top firm for real estate, M&A, private equity and venture capital, investment funds and tax law.
Many P+P partners are recommended in multiple specialties or are considered expert advisors, such as e.g. Dr. Matthias Bruse for the areas M&A, private equity and company succession/estates/trusts ("M&A all-rounder with distinctive tax knowledge"), Prof. Dr. Reinhard Pöllath for company succession/estates/trusts, M&A and tax law, the Frankfurt partner Dr. Andreas Rodin for his advice in the areas of tax law, asset management and investment funds ("has developed industry standards", client). Philipp von Braunschweig, Otto Haberstock and Dr. Andrea von Drygalski are among the frequently recommended lawyers for M&A and private equity transactions. In addition, the younger generation has gained increasing influence. Here, the names of the Berlin real estate lawyer Dr. Stefan Lebek and the Munich venture capital specialist Dr. Michael Inhester stand out, as well as the Berlin private client partner Dr. Andreas Richter or the very young Dr. Stephan Viskorf, who is already considered to be an insider tip.
The new partner Dr. Wolfgang Grobecker underscores this trend and contributes "high class, original company and corporate law advice" to the firm. This "recognized" company and corporate lawyer opens up new dimensions for M&A clients with the firm. Clients compliment Dr. Grobecker's "sensational reaction times, outstanding expertise and experience, as well as dedication". The continuing large proportion of transactions is due to the "excellent reputations of the individual partners" and the qualities of the "excellent transaction lawyers". JUVE includes Dr. Andrea von Drygalski, Philipp von Braunschweig, Otto Haberstock ("result-oriented, gets the deal done quickly, competitor"), Dr. Andreas Junius ("very good, internationally experienced, client"), Prof. Dr. Reinhard Pöllath and Dr. Matthias Bruse ("always a pleasure to negotiate with him, competitor").
Dr. Matthias Bruse is also considered a leading advisor on private equity transactions. Other frequently recommended lawyers in this specialty are Dr. Andrea von Drygalski, Otto Haberstock ("sovereign man of action, competitor"), Philipp von Braunschweig ("very good and experienced, client"), Dr. Michael Inhester ("always knowledgeable on the current topics; competitive in price, client"), Christian Tönies, Dr. Benedikt Hohaus for management participations and Dr. Andreas Rodin for funds. The firm has an "excellent reputation" with "very good connections to leading funds". The broad advisory spectrum extends from fund structuring to buy-outs and venture capital, as well as advice to minor shareholders and management. "Dr. Michael Inhester's team has continued to grow and receives high praise from clients ... it [the firm] is expanding its practice areas step by step, especially in corporate law, including public takeover law, and thereby positions itself for large, complex buy-outs.
In addition, the firm offers "extremely well-positioned" tax advice that includes company tax law and the "comprehensive support of German and foreign PE and real estate funds, management and investors in Germany", as well as advice to "many very significant private and institutional investors and investment banks." Frequently recommended lawyers are Dr. Andreas Rodin ("highly qualified in fund structuring, competitor"), Prof. Dr. Reinhard Pöllath, Dr. Thomas Töben, Dr. Michael Best, Wolfgang Tischbirek and Richard Engl.
The combination of legal and tax advice, in particular with M&A, asset management and real estate expertise, puts the firm in first place within the league of the leading firms in the area of company succession/estates/trusts. Dr. Andreas Richter and Prof. Dr. Reinhard Pöllath are among the "leading" advisors of companies and wealthy individuals. Dr. Andreas Rodin and Dr. Matthias Bruse are also "frequently recommended". This area of expertise includes advice to family companies, many family offices and UHNI (ultra high net worth individuals), as well as trusts, on corporate deals and investments, ... succession planning ... and the formation and advising of trusts. Name partner Pöllath is well-known for his advisement of family companies and families.
The "strong practice" in this area also provides the investment funds team with clients. In this area, Dr. Andreas Rodin and Dr. Patricia Volhard are among the "frequently recommended" lawyers. The firm's expertise lies in advice to special funds in the unregulated area, which attracts institutional investors and also wealthy private clients. "Pöllath has positioned itself early on with regard to the new regulatory requirements that are approaching this hitherto unregulated sector.
In the Berlin office, the real estate experts win points with their expertise on financing and commercialization, which "positively distinguishes them from the competition". The integration with the tax lawyers that increasingly concentrate on restructuring and debt restructuring and the alignment with the funds practice are advantages in this area. The concentration is on transaction-related advice and financing and project development. All P+P real estate partners are "frequently recommended" lawyers: Stefan Lebek ("great economic understanding, client; deal-oriented, experienced specialist, competitor"), Dr. Carsten Führling and Dr. Matthias Durst ("I always use them when the opposition becomes difficult, client").
JUVE thereby recognizes 2/3 of all P+P partners as leading or recommended experts in their respective specialties. The integration and networking of the selected fields of the firm are positively distinguished in many areas and are responsible for the overall ranking of the firm.

WHO'S WHO LEGAL - Corporate Tax 2010

Six P+P partners are listed to be leading lawyers in the German tax area: Matthias Bruse, Richard Engl, Reinhard Pöllath, Andreas Rodin, Thomas Töben and Wolfgang Tischbirek. According to the editor, all named lawyers can truly be considered leaders in their field.

International Financial Law Review IFLR - 2011

According to the well-known IFLR1000 guide, P+P belongs to the recommended firms with Munich's P+P partner Matthias Bruse and Otto Haberstock as leading lawyers for private equity. "The firm continues to be highly regarded in the market with visibility across a range of transactions"… As such, it "is a solid practice and has specific part of market", such as management incentive programmes.

International Tax Review - World Tax 2011

P+P "improved markedly over the last year and is noted in the market as one of the leading tax practices in Germany" and " very good in international fund structuring … with an impressive list of clients ... Most of the team focuses on M&A, private equity, funds and real estate", whereby "Dieter Birk is praised for his tax litigation skills."

Expert Guides: Guide to the World's leading Private Equity Lawyers, ed. 2010

The biannually updated guide has been researching the worldwide leading lawyers in 39 jurisdictions for over 16 years. In Germany, P+P partners Matthias Bruse, Philipp von Braunschweig, Otto Haberstock and Andreas Rodin were selected as leading lawyers for their private equity expertise.

Chambers Europe 2010 - Europe's Leading Lawyers for Business

According to the renowned guide, P+P belongs to the leading firms in the fields of corporate / M&A and private equity, investment funds and fund formation, real estate and tax. Receiving accolade in all main practice areas confirms the firm's policy of focusing on selected jurisdictions.
Leading individuals include Munich partners Matthias Bruse, Reinhard Pöllath, Benedikt Hohaus (all corporate, M&A, private equity), Michael Best and Richard Engl (both tax), as well as Frankfurt partner Andreas Rodin who is ranked leading for his expertise in fund formation and tax and Berlin partner Matthias Durst for his real estate practice. In detail, P+P and its partners are ranked as follows:
In M&A corporate, private equity, the leading Reinhard Pöllath is regarded as "one of the pre-eminent and most sought-after corporate advisers in Germany". Matthias Bruse is one of the leading lawyers focusing "on large corporate transactions", while Benedikt Hohaus "wins plaudits for his ability and wide experience in private equity". In general, the firm "has an outstanding reputation in private equity, where it is considered the clear market leader. Its … strong corporate team works alongside the firm's resident tax specialists and, although primarily known for private equity transactions, lawyers here also advise high net worth individuals, families and their companies on a broad range of corporate matters".
Within investment funds, Frankfurt partner Andreas Rodin is a leading lawyer and "recognised as one of the strongest practitioners in the field, particularly in fund formation. Clients appreciate his experience and advice, and are impressed by his knowledge of tax". The firm "has a long-standing position as a market leader for investment funds work. Commentators laud the team's client-focused service, experience and expertise in deal structuring, among other attributes". Within real estate, the law firm "continues to attract clients seeking counsel for large deals". The leading Matthias Durst and his colleagues are chosen by clients for their "ability to identify commercial concerns, as well as their success rate and fair pricing".
In tax, Andreas Rodin is a leader in the private equity field, while property expert Thomas Töben is also greatly admired as a master of the trade. Clients describe the pragmatic Michael Best as an "outstanding lawyer" offering a "deep knowledge of our industry." Corporate player Richard Engl serves a number of long-standing clients.
P+P gains respect by acting "on transactional and contentious matters in domains spanning M&A, private equity, real estate and corporate tax. Clients speak of the large team's combination of technical advice with commercial insight. They also value its lawyers' ability to "clearly communicate the effects of tax issues rather than just raise them".

The Legal 500 - Edition 2010-2011

P+P is recognized in all core practice areas including corporate and M&A, private equity as well as investment funds, real estate and tax.
Within corporate and M&A mid-sized deals, P+P is a first tier firm and has been involved in several highlight matters. The "quality of advice is 'undisputed'" with Andrea von Drygalski, Philipp von Braunschweig, Reinhard Pöllath and Matthias Bruse being "recommended for handling matters in an 'excellent' way, 'exactly as you would expect it'".
P+P has a strong focus on private equity fund formation, with Andreas Rodin "rated as the 'king of fund structuring' … Andrea von Drygalski is rated as 'exceptional', Otto Haberstock as 'commercially driven' and Matthias Bruse is an 'extremely skilled advisor'".
Within investment funds, P+P "is best known for Andreas Rodin and his extensive expertise in fund structuring. Closed-end funds and hedge funds are two areas of focus for the team, including the recommended Uwe Bärenz and Patricia Volhard. Structuring and formation of regulated funds is the team's focus, setting it apart from others in the arena."
Within real estate, P+P "...had a solid 2009 and weathered the storm focusing on financing and project development". The recommended team includes Matthias Durst, Stefan Lebek and Carsten Führling.
Within tax, P+P, in particular the Munich team, is renowned for its private equity-related work with the "extremely strong" Richard Engl being "highly praised". Also recommended are Reinhard Pöllath and Andreas Rodin.

PLC Mergers and Acquisitions 2010-2011

PLC's editorial team has researched the legal markets worldwide to identify the firms and individuals that the market considers to have expertise in the M&A practice area.
The results prove P+P as a "highly recommended" firm for its M&A mid market practice work with P+P Munich partners Matthias Bruse and Reinhard Pöllath as eminent experts in this field.

PLC Tax on Transactions 2010-211

According to this renowned guide, P+P belongs to the highly recommended law firms for its tax practice work. This is attributable to the combined efforts of P+P Munich partners Michael Best, Richard Engl, Reinhard Pöllath and Berlin partner Thomas Töben.

Handelsblatt/Legal Success - Best Lawyers: Top commercial lawyers in Germany (May 2010)

Exclusively for the German Handelsblatt/Legal Success magazine, American publisher Best Lawyers identified a list of top commercial lawyers in more than 40 practice areas. The research team interviewed renowned experts and colleagues for their recommendations on which lawyers outside their own team they would refer work to if they could not take on the client themselves. P+P professionals are ranked as follows:

• Michael Best for tax
• Matthias Bruse for private equity, M&A
• Andrea von Drygalski for corporate law, M&A
• Richard Engl for tax
• Wolfgang Grobecker for M&A
• Otto Haberstock for private equity, venture capital
• Michael Inhester for private equity, venture capital
• Reinhard Pöllath for corporate law, tax, M&A, arbitration/litigation, trusts and foundations
• Andreas Rodin for private equity, private funds, tax, M&A
• Frank Thiäner for private equity, M&A
• Thomas Töben for tax
• Stephan Viskorf for tax

JUVE German Commercial Law Firms, 2010

JUVE's German Commercial Law Firms is a comprising analysis of Germany as Europe's largest legal market covering 600 law firms. With 19 'leading' or 'recommended' lawyers (of a total of 29 partners), P+P is among the top firms in all its core practice areas, which include private equity, venture capital, fund formation, transactions, company succession and trusts, real estate and tax. In detail, P+P is mentioned as follows:
The national review confirms P+P as a "first mover firm, as far as financial investors are concerned". Andreas Junius is "giving the Frankfurt office valuable corporate expertise as well as a specialty in Islamic Finance" and the Munich office gained a "well-regarded corporate advisory lawyer" by hiring Wolfgang Grobecker while Munich partner Reinhard Pöllath "has evolved into a legal pater familias for German industry".
He belongs to the leading lawyers for his tax practice and is also leading in the fields of company succession and trusts, along with Andreas Richter who is according to clients "also very qualified in charity law".
"The leading practices' advice … combines P+P's specialist know-how in alternative investments, such as private equity, venture capital and tax, ... paired with the excellent reputation for advice to influential families on operational issues" and leads to the assumption that "top firms such as P+P continue to shape the market".
P+P belongs to the first tier firms in the fields of private equity fund formation as well as venture capital. Munich partner Matthias Bruse is one of the leading lawyers for his private equity transactional practice ('outstanding, very competent'). Other recommended lawyers include Andrea von Drygalski, Otto Haberstock ('perfect, always reliable'), Philipp von Braunschweig, Benedikt Hohaus, Michael Inhester, together with associate Christian Tönies ('pragmatic, economical and quick') who is furthermore described as "another strong young lawyer … who was recommended a number of times." P+P has an "outstanding reputation for advice to management and fund structuring" thanks to Andreas Rodin ('nobody does fund structuring better'). The firm's practice strengths lie in its broad spectrum of fund structuring, buy-outs, VC and advice to small shareholders and management as well as in its very good connections to leading funds, especially in the mid-cap segment.
In M&A, P+P has "outstanding deal lawyers with good contacts, especially to family businesses. … As ever, P+P individual lawyers are warmly recommended by clients", as is Matthias Bruse ('high level of quality, fits in well with us'), Andrea von Drygalski, Reinhard Pöllath, Philipp von Braunschweig ('specialist expertise, confident manner'), Otto Haberstock ('very prudent, fair and good').
P+P is also recommended for its real estate practice focusing on transactions as well as finance and project development. Especially recommended lawyers include Berlin partners Carsten Führling, Matthias Durst and Stefan Lebek, who is mentioned as one of the leading lawyers in this field.
In tax, P+P contributes with seven recommended partners, three of them named as leading tax authorities. The latter include Berlin partner Thomas Töben ('quick thinker') and Munich partners Reinhard Pöllath and Richard Engl. Frankfurt partners Wolfgang Tischbirek, Andreas Rodin ('a real expert for fund structuring') as well as Munich partner Michael Best are also recommended for their tax competence. In particular, the firm is renowned for its "top-level tax advisory practice for investments and projects of ultra-high-net-worth private individual" and its "all-round advice to German and foreign private equity and real estate funds, management and investors in Germany".

Legal Media Group Expert Guides: The Best of the Best 2010

The only international guide identifies the world's leading practitioners across 11 areas of law.
For private equity Munich P+P partner Matthias Bruse is one of five listed top lawyers. Berlin P+P partner Andreas Richter belongs to the 'Best of the Best' German authorities commended in the fields of trust and estates.

azur Award 2010 Career and Family

In its current issue azur100 presents the most popular 100 employers for young professionals such as law firms, companies, public authorities and independent auditing firms, all of them working in the legal or economic sector. Key criteria were training, salary, promotion prospects, balance of work and leisure and professional reputation, all assumed as particularly important for young professionals.
According to the survey P+P belongs to the TOP20 employers. In addition, the firm has been awarded the 'azur career and family AWARD 2010' for its remarkable commitment on this subject and an excellent grading for its extensive training concept.

WHO'S WHO LEGAL - Mergers & Acquisitions 2010

In the 2010 edition of this renowned publication, P+P is represented with P+P Munich partners Matthias Bruse and Reinhard Pöllath who is mentioned as "master genius for M&A".

Expert Guides: Guide to the World's Leading Real Estate Lawyers 2010

P+P Berlin partners Stefan Lebek and Matthias Durst belong to the leading lawyers in Germany for their real estate practice.
To be portrayed, the research process involves sending over 4,000 questionnaires to senior practitioners and in-house counsels. The results are discussed and refined with advisors in legal centres worldwide.

PLC Cross-border Handbooks Private Equity 2010

This international publication identifies the leading private equity market lawyers and law firms across 41 jurisdictions. According to PLC, P+P is a leading law firm in private equity buyouts due to the authority of Matthias Bruse, Reinhard Pöllath and Andreas Rodin. In addition, P+P is one of the leading law firms in private equity venture capital, represented by the expertise of the listed Munich partner Michael Inhester. Listing the Frankfurt partners Andreas Rodin and Wolfgang Tischbirek, P+P is highly recommended (with no leading law firm in this practice area) for its private equity fund formation competence.

PLC Cross-border Handbooks Private Clients 2010

P+P is highly recommended for its private client practice by this renowned publication. P+P Munich partner Matthias Bruse and Berlin partner Andreas Richter were chosen among a total of 11 top experts in Germany. In addition, Andreas Richter contributed the German chapter answering questions on tax and legal German jurisdiction.

Expert Guides: Guide to the world's leading Mergers and Acquisition Lawyers 2009/2010

Two P+P partners are listed in this renowned publication: Munich founding partners Reinhard Pöllath and Matthias Bruse are named as top German lawyers for their mergers and acquisitions practice.
Expert Guides have been researching the world's legal markets for more than 15 years and focus on individuals considered by clients and peers to be the best in their field.

European Legal Experts 2010

The well-known guide summons the eminent authorities in the European legal profession. The legal experts were identified by experienced researchers as well as firms and individuals. In Germany, P+P contributed with 11 partners; some of them (i.e. Matthias Bruse, Reinhard Pöllath, Andreas Rodin) were mentioned in more than one practice area:

• Corporate and M&A: Philipp von Braunschweig, Matthias Bruse, Reinhard Pöllath, Andreas Rodin
• Tax: Michael Best, Matthias Bruse, Richard Engl, Reinhard Pöllath, Andreas Rodin, Wolfgang Tischbirek, Thomas Töben
• Construction and real estate: Matthias Durst, Carsten Führling, Stefan Lebek

PLC Cross-border Handbooks Real Estate 2009/2010

P+P's Berlin partner Stefan Lebek is, once again, recommended for his "in-depth knowledge of all aspects of real estate, including sales, project development, construction, commercial leases and joint ventures."

Tax Directors Handbook 2010

P+P belongs to the leading tax law firms in Germany with P+P's Frankfurt partner Andreas Rodin as one of the leading global tax lawyers.
In general, P+P is renowned for its "strong emphasis on private equity and investment fund related tax advice. Clients single out for praise various partners" including Thomas Töben, Dieter Birk (both Berlin), Benedikt Hohaus, Michael Best and Richard Engl (all Munich).

JUVE Handbook - German edition 2009/2010

On a national level, P+P is ranked among the TOP 25 law firms with 'particular lawyers that are still recommended enthusiastically by clients'. The Frankfurt office is strengthened by the new partner Andreas Junius and his 'considerable corporate expertise as well as his specialization in Islamic financing'.
P+P partners are often listed in several practice areas that demonstrates the wide range of these professionals' competence. As such, Reinhard Pöllath is considered a leading expert on tax law and business succcession/asset management/foundations and is moreover a frequently recommended M&A practitioner. His colleague Matthias Bruse is a leading expert on private equity and venture capital and frequently recommended for M&A as well as business succession and asset management. Andrea von Drygalski, Otto Haberstock and Philipp von Braunschweig (all Munich) are frequently recommended for their expertise on both M&A and private equity transactions. Furthermore, Frankfurt partner Andreas Rodin is often recommended for fund structuring, tax law, and business successions/asset management/foundations.
Each office has its own focus in addition to shared practice areas. The Berlin office is highly commended for its performance in real estate matters. In addition, it is characterized as very experienced in tax law and is also known in the market for advising on private equity/venture capital, banking and finance law and business succession/asset management/foundations. Stefan Lebek is regarded as a leading lawyer in real estate law, and Carsten Führling and Matthias Durst are also recommended experts ('deal-oriented, in the upper price class, but without a huge team, client').
P+P's Munich office is especially recommended for its M&A practice and its advice on tax law, private equity/venture capital and business succession/asset management/foundations. P+P Munich has 'outstanding transaction lawyers'; in particular Matthias Bruse ('hiqh performance, fits personally with us, client'), Andrea von Drygalski, Philipp von Braunschweig ('specialized expertise, confident appearance, client'), Reinhard Pöllath and Otto Haberstock ('very canny, fair and professional, client'). In the area of business succession/asset management/foundations P+P is among the law firms with a significant impact on the market. P+P partners Reinhard Pöllath and Andreas Richter are both regarded as leading experts for corporate advice, as well as advising high net worth individuals. P+P enjoys an 'excellent reputation for advising influential families in their companies' operative matters' and combines 'its special know-how … on alternative investments such as private equity and venture capital, as well as tax law, with its long-term family office and foundation advice.' In general, P+P specialize in 'advising family-run companies, a considerable number of family offices and foundations in corporate deals and investments (e.g. private equity and hedge funds, tax law and the respective regulatory law). Furthermore, P+P is well-known for succession planning (e.g. succession and family law) and the incorporation and advising of foundations from private assets'. In addition to Reinhard Pöllath and Andreas Richter (Berlin) ('also highly qualified in common public interest law, client'), Matthias Bruse (Munich) and Andreas Rodin (Frankfurt) are also frequently recommended practitioners.
P+P belongs to the top law firms in the market for all areas of private equity, venture capital and fund structuring. The law firm 'is highly experienced in venture capital' and is characterized by its 'wide range of fund structurings, buy-outs, venture capital and advice to small shareholders and management'. In addition to Michael Inhester, 'Christian Tönies has appeared on the scene as another spirited young lawyer who is already frequently recommended.' P+P enjoys an 'excellent reputation for management advice and fund structuring' and has very good relationships to leading funds, in particular in the mid-cap area. Highly recommended P+P partners include Matthias Bruse ('outstanding, very confident, competitor'), Andrea von Drygalski, Otto Haberstock ('perfect, always reliable, client'), Philipp von Braunschweig, Michael Inhester, Andreas Rodin ('no one is better in fund structuring, client'), Benedikt Hohaus, Christian Tönies ('pragmatic, efficient and fast, competitor').
P+P partners Richard Engl, Reinhard Pöllath (both Munich) and Thomas Töben (Berlin) are listed as leading experts on tax law. P+P's strength is its transaction-focused tax know-how, in particular in the practice areas of private equity, real estate, M&A and the firm's 'high-level tax consulting' on investments and projects of major private assets. Another focus includes tax advising on German and international private equity and real estate funds, management and investors in Germany and "a number of major private and institutional investors and investment banks". In addition to the leading lawyers Reinhard Pöllath, Thomas Töben ("quick thinker, competitor") and Richard Engl, Dr. Andreas Rodin ("real expert in fund structuring, competitor"), Michael Best and Wolfgang Tischbirek are frequently recommended .

Who's Who Legal: The International Who's Who of Business Lawyers - Private Funds 2010

The editors' comprehensive annual research for leading experts revealed eight names in the field of private funds in Germany; three of them are partners at P+P: Munich P+P partner Matthias Bruse as well as Frankfurt P+P partners Andreas Rodin and Patricia Volhard belong to the leading lawyers for private funds in Germany. In addition, Patricia was invited to participate in a roundtable discussion as one of three leading practitioners in the world to discuss the key issues facing private funds lawyers today.

IFLR 1000 The Guide to the World's Leading Financial Law Firms, Ed. 2010

In the 2010 edition of the well-known IFLR 1000 guide, P+P belongs to the recommended firms with Munich's P+P partner Matthias Bruse as a leading lawyer for private equity. As so, P+P is focusing on "the classical private equity elements of fund formation and management. The team ... has increased its manpower with ... Andreas Junius", who joined P+P as a new partner in March 2009.

PLC Cross-border Handbooks 2009/2010 - Tax on Transactions

P+P is highly recommended for its tax on transaction practice.
In particular, name partner Reinhard Pöllath belongs to the leading lawyers for his "sound expertise in tax, focusing on international M&A and investment matters". In addition, Munich P+P partner Michael Best is recognised for his private equity taxation practice and his colleague Richard Engl is "an expert on tax-related restructuring and M&A matters, cross-border tax planning and transfer pricing issues". Berlin P+P partner Thomas Töben is recognised for his "tax expertise in general corporate transactions, such as acquisitions and restructurings".

The Legal 500 - Edition 2009/2010

In its new edition, P+P is recognized in the areas of corporate and M&A mid-sized deals, investment funds, private equity, real estate and tax.
Within corporate and M&A mid-sized deals, P+P is a first tier firm with a 'very good transactional' practice, focusing on private equity transactions and advice on the tax aspects of deals. Matthias Bruse 'understands the dynamics of the transaction in terms of structuring and negotiating' the deal. Andrea von Drygalski is 'very experienced' and Reinhard Pöllath is 'famous'.
Within investment funds, Andreas Rodin has an 'in-depth knowledge of fund structuring and tax-related issues'. The 'strong funds practice' concentrates on hedge funds and closed-end fund work and is 'driven by the tax/regulatory side' of the firm. It represents a sizeable number of private equity funds.
Within private equity, P+P is 'very stable and very focused' with some 'excellent private equity practitioners' and particular expertise in the mid-cap segment of the market. Heavyweight Matthias Bruse is very well-regarded in the market, and is 'absolutely one of the top guys for mid-cap transactions'. Frank Thiäner also has a 'good mixture of commercial and technical sense,' while Amos Veith is noted for his 'excellent response times'. Andreas Rodin is 'renowned for his structuring and tax expertise'. The team is 'extremely strong on fund formation and related transactional work'.
Within real estate and construction real estate, P+P is highly praised across the market and clients enthuse about the 'superb and skilled' Stefan Lebek. The whole team, including Matthias Durst and Carsten Führling, 'are running an excellent business'. Clients find the team gives advice that is 'deal oriented, not ego-driven, eloquent, and hands-on', which makes for a 'one-stop-shop in real estate'. Furthermore, the firm is 'a prime choice for tax advice related to real estate transactions'. The team is 'able to get very large deals done', and some clients believe that even top-tier firms 'are not able to hold a candle to this firm'.
With regard to its tax practice, P+P is a 'good firm with a strong emphasis on private equity and investment funds' and related tax advice. Clients single out for praise various partners in this firm, including the 'very thorough' Thomas Töben, Dieter Birk, who is 'skilled in tax and financial law' and Benedikt Hohaus, who has an 'excellent mixture of technical and commercial expertise'. Other praised members of the team include Michael Best, an 'excellent tax lawyer who is fun to work with' and Richard Engl, who 'fights for his client like a lion'. Andreas Rodin is another 'significant partner' for tax advice.

International Tax Review: World Tax 2010

P+P belongs to the leading tax law firms in Germany. It "has advised an impressive list of clients this year ...[and] focusses on the tax implications of transactions and asset management". According to competitors, P+P has "improved their position with the hiring of Richard Engl a couple of years ago".

P+P Law Firm of the Year 2009 in Germany

ACQ has awarded P+P as the "Most Trusted Law Firm of the Year 2009" in Germany for its excellence in the fields of private equity/fund formation, mergers and acquisitions, tax, real estate and family office. All primary P+P practice areas were recognized for their valuable contributions. In addition, P+P shares the award for "German M&A Law Firm of the Year" as well as "German Tax Law Firm of the Year". These distinctions confirm P+P's policy of focusing on selected areas of specialization, while offering excellence and state of the art-expertise, judgment and independence in these areas.

WHO'S WHO LEGAL - Corporate Tax 2009

Five P+P partner are listed and portrayed to be leading lawyers in the German tax area: Richard Engl, Reinhard Pöllath, Andreas Rodin, Thomas Töben, Wolfgang Tischbirek. According to the editor, all named lawyers can truly be considered leaders in their field.

Chambers Europe 2009

P+P is mentioned as a leading firm in corporate/M&A, investment funds, private equity, real estate and tax. Leading individuals include Munich partners Matthias Bruse, Reinhard Pöllath (both M&A and private equity), Benedikt Hohaus (M&A), Michael Best, Richard Engl (both tax), as well as Berlin partners Matthias Durst (real estate) Thomas Töben (tax) and Andreas Rodin (tax). In addition, Andreas Rodin belongs to the star individuals for his expertise in investment funds fund formation.
In particular, P+P is "highly respected in the market for its involvement in private equity matters and for its adeptness in the fund structuring business" as well as "…providing advice to large family-owned businesses on both a transactional and a corporate/commercial level". P+P founding partner Matthias Bruse is a "vastly experienced" practitioner and name partner Reinhard Pöllath is well-known for his advice to supervisory boards but also for his "commercial advice to some of the most prominent individuals in the German Mittelstand".
In the investment funds practice, Frankfurt partner Andreas Rodin is known as "a tireless technocrat with an extraordinary reputation to go with his knowledge of private equity fund structures". The P+P investment team is "principally reputed for its vast expertise in private equity and alternative investment funds …[and] proclaimed by clients and peers as 'one of the market leaders in terms of structuring and formation of regulated funds.' Enjoying an enviable relationship with a number of institutional clients, this team is active in both domestic and international funds, with a particularly close link to 'best friends' in Luxembourg."
In private equity matters, the "accomplished private equity team is a favorite of the German Mittelstand, and also plays a role at the higher end of the market… the team claims dominance in advisory work at a managerial level for companies in the process of being traded." In particular, Munich partner Benedikt Hohaus "has achieved a prominent position in this niche … as 'an experienced and hard-working adviser', whereas his colleague "Matthias Bruse is the team's heavy hitter on the transactional side … as a … polished negotiator with outstanding technical skill." Although Reinhard Pöllath "is devoting a lot of his time to the representation of prominent families and family businesses in Germany … [he] upholds his reputation as an invaluable resource for the team".
P+P's real estate practice "draws plaudits for its work advising property management companies on transactional matters. The group continues to broaden its real estate practice under the astute leadership of Matthias Durst, whose hard work and dedication earn him praise."
The strong tax team has a reputation "for its expertise in transaction-related advice, especially in the private equity and real estate sectors." P+P is renowned for its "capacity to integrate tax advice with fund formation strategies to come up with an effective unitary model. In this respect, star fund formation adviser Andreas Rodin has garnered a fabulous reputation for his immensely versatile knowledge of tax-related legislation", whereas Berlin partner "Thomas Töben deals more directly with the transactional aspects of the practice, particularly in the real estate arena. … In private equity, Michael Best is a visible presence in the Munich market." Additionally, Richard Engl's presence in Munich is "an important move that is bound to boost an already successful team. Engl will focus on the corporate tax area, where he brings vast knowledge and experience."

WHO'S WHO LEGAL 2009 Edition - The International Who's Who of Business Lawyers

All lawyers listed in this publication are leaders in their field.
Ten P+P partners are represented in six practice areas; in corporate tax and private equity they are also on the list of "most highly regarded individuals".
In particular, P+P truly dominates the tax field: Reinhard Pöllath is listed as one of the "most highly regarded individuals" with the accompanying commentary: "P+P has the strongest contingent in the country, with a team of five making the final publication…Reinhard Pöllath is a 'leading' practitioner and 'very well known' …. Thomas Töben is renowned for his advice 'on the restructuring and reorganising of businesses and partnerships, M&A transactions, taxation of real property investments, cross-border leasing and the privatisation of state-owned companies'. Richard Engl, in Munich, whose specialisation in restructuring was noted on a number of occasions, does a great deal of post-acquisition reorganisation for national and international clients. Wolfgang Tischbirek in Frankfurt is especially knowledgeable when it comes to real estate investments and transactions and the tax aspects of asset management and estate planning. He is also 'an expert' in tax planning for both domestic and foreign investors and in the structuring of cross-border acquisitions and reorganisations. Andreas Rodin, a 'prolific speaker and author', joins Pöllath as 'a big name' in the market' - not only in tax, but also in the field of private equity. Andreas is "truly excellent" and belongs among the "most highly regarded individuals", joined by his 'superb colleagues' Matthias Bruse and Patricia Volhard.
Margot von Westerholt (Munich) is listed in the field of Internet & E-Commerce, while the Berlin office glows with P+P partner Amos Veith, who is renowned for his expertise in project finance, as is Stefan Lebek for his real estate practice.
In M&A, Reinhard Pöllath and Matthias Bruse "were also consistently recommended to researchers".

Expert Guides: Guide to the world's leading trusts and estates practitioners 2009

P+P is listed with two partners in this renowned publication: Reinhard Pöllath (Munich) and Andreas Richter (Berlin) are named as German top lawyers in the field of trusts and estates.
Expert Guide has been researching the world's legal markets for more than 15 years and focuses on individuals considered by clients and peers to be the best in their field.

PLC Cross-border Handbooks 2009/10 - Mergers & Acquisitions

This publication is a comprehensive guide to the law in 45 practice areas worldwide. In the M&A edition, P+P Pöllath + Partners is recommended for this practice area. P+P founding partner Reinhard Pöllath is named a leading M&A lawyer and Munich partner Matthias Bruse is also recommended.

Thomson Reuters M&A Legal Advisory Review - June 2009

The listing of P+P’s M&A deals in the current edition of M&A Legal Advisory Review regarding the first six months of 2009 confirms its reputation in the M&A market. Thomson Reuters and Westlaw Business are known to provide comprehensive and current reviews of M&A activities to date.

Handelsblatt/Legal Success - Best Lawyers: Top commercial lawyers in Germany (May 2009)

Exclusively for the German Handelsblatt/Legal Success magazine, American publisher Best Lawyers identified a list of top commercial lawyers in 41 practice areas. The research team interviewed renowned experts and colleagues for their recommendations on which lawyers outside their own team they would refer work to if they could not take on the client themselves. P+P partners are ranked as follows:

• Michael Best for tax and private equity
• Matthias Bruse for private equity, M&A
• Andrea von Drygalski for corporate law, private equity, M&A
• Richard Engl for tax
• Otto Haberstock for private equity
• Michael Inhester for venture capital
• Reinhard Pöllath for corporate law, tax, M&A
• Andreas Rodin for private equity, private funds, tax, advising of investment funds, M&A
• Thomas Töben for tax

Juve Handbook 2009

JUVE confirms in this survey, which covers 600 German law firms, the outstanding role of P+P in the practice areas of tax, company succession, private equity, venture capital, fund structuring, M&A and real estate. In addition, seven of the 14 leading or quoted partners of P+P are mentioned in two or three practice areas. In detail, P+P is mentioned as follows:
In tax, P+P is represented by six names, three of them "leading": Richard Engl ("one of the greats in corporate tax law", competitor), Reinhard Pöllath, Thomas Töben and Andreas Rodin, Michael Best and Wolfgang Tischbirek as recommended lawyers. All in all, P+P's "highly recommended tax practice has earned its excellent reputation through many years of all-round-advice to private equity funds, as well as its outstanding expertise on the interface tax/M&A/corporate".
In company succession, P+P has two partners who are named "leading" lawyers: Reinhard Pöllath embodies "the epitome of private client lawyers", while Berlin partner Andreas Richter is "very specialized in representing interests opposite co-partners and avoidance of family disputes". In addition, Munich partner Matthias Bruse is "highly qualified" and Andreas Rodin from the Frankfurt office is also recommended. All four partners "remain constantly at the top of the market with their specialist orientation. The result of this is that almost no other competitor represents this advisory field as comprehensively as P+P." In private equity (transactions), another "leading" lawyer is Matthias Bruse, whereas Michael Inhester "is now emerging as one of the foremost up-and-coming-partners in the Munich market". P+P has a "particularly broad spectrum, including fund structuring, buyouts, venture capital and advice to small shareholders and management". Other recommended lawyers are Andrea von Drygalski ("very experienced, has seen everything"), Otto Haberstock ("good at getting results"), Philipp von Braunschweig, Andreas Rodin and Benedikt Hohaus ("excellent management advisor").
In addition to private equity, in M&A " the deal skills of the partners are [also] consistently recommended; the integration with the tax practice equally so". P+P has "outstanding deal lawyers with good contacts, especially with family business [and] portfolio acquisitions for PE houses". This assessment refers to Reinhard Pöllath, Matthias Bruse, Philipp von Braunschweig and Otto Haberstock ("very good professionally, pleasant person", competitor) (all in Munich).
In real estate, Berlin partner Stefan Lebek is estimated as a "leading" name and "dominates the firm's presence in the capital". P+P is "continuing along its transaction-oriented path in Berlin with total determination".

Legal Media Group Expert Guides: The Best of the Best 2009

The Best of the Best compiles the top 25 practitioners in 19 areas of law and is updated on a bi-yearly basis.
P+P founding partner Reinhard Pöllath has once again been selected and portrayed as one of the 'Best of the Best' lawyers for Mergers & Acquisitions. This very special award confirms the strategy of P+P to focus on particular areas and deliver only the highest quality advice.

PLC Which Lawyer? Yearbook 2009

P+P, a 'leading' firm for venture capital and private equity, is also 'highly recommended' for its expertise in tax, private client, corporate M&A and fund formation matters and 'recommended' for corporate real estate matters.
Reinhard Pöllath has been named a 'leading' lawyer for tax matters and corporate M&A. In addition, Reinhard as well as Matthias Bruse (both in Munich) are 'highly recommended' for their private equity practice. Matthias is also a 'recommended' lawyer for venture capital and - last but not least - Munich partner Michael Best is a 'recognised' lawyer for his tax practise. The Frankfurt office has a strong standing in the field of private equity: Andreas Rodin, Frankfurt partner, is 'highly recommended' for his private equity fund formation practice and "recommended" for general private equity matters. Wolfgang Tischbirek, also from the Frankfurt office, is 'recognised' for his private equity expertise. In Berlin, partner Stefan Lebek is a 'recommended' lawyer for corporate real estate, while his colleague Andreas Richter is a 'highly recommended' lawyer for private clients.
As such, P+P has been rewarded in all its areas of expertise.

P+P Law Firm of the Year 2008

For the second time in a row, P+P has been awarded the Deutsche unquote" Private Equity Award for Law Firm of the Year. The award recognizes consistent excellence in fund construction and transaction services and rewards P+P for the second time for its sector knowledge, advisory and negotiating skills, efficiency of execution, value-adding capability, vision and the overall development of the business.
We at P+P are grateful to all of our clients and business partners who have given us the opportunity to advise on the transactions and make the contributions with which we have earned the award.

The Legal Media Group: Guide to the World's Leading Tax Advisers 2008

Thomas Töben, Richard Engl, Reinhard Pöllath, Andreas Rodin, Wolfgang Tischbirek, Michael Best and Matthias Bruse belong to the leading tax advisers worldwide. Seven of the 48 selected lawyers from the German sector are partners at P+P.
First published in 1994, this renowned publication evaluates more than 4,000 questionnaires and confirms the results with advisers in legal circles worldwide.

World Finance Legal Awards 2009

Reinhard Pöllath has been awarded Best Mergers & Acquisition Lawyer in Germany. P+P congratulates its senior partner and thankfully appreciates this international award as a recognition of its high caliber M&A practice.

PLC Which Lawyer Yearbook 2008/2009

PLC Cross-border Handbooks selects the best lawyers in Germany and abroad and publishes the results on a regular basis and, in addition, consolidates these rankings and analyses in an annual compendium.
In all, eight P+P partners were named in this reliable publication, mostly in more than one practice area. Munich partners Reinhard Pöllath and Matthias Bruse are even named in three different categories:

• Reinhard is leading in tax and corporate/M&A, and is highly recommended for private equity buyouts.
• Matthias is highly recommended for private equity buyouts and recommended both for corporate/M&A and venture capital.
• P+P Frankfurt partner Andreas Rodin is highly recommended for private equity fund formation and recommended for private equity buyouts.
• Frankfurt partner Wolfgang Tischbirek is recognised for his private equity buyout practice.
• P+P Berlin partner Andreas Richter is highly recommended for his private client expertise, while
• Stefan Lebek (also in Berlin) is recommended in real estate matters.
• Last but certainly not least, Michael Best (Munich) and Thomas Töben (Berlin) were recognised for their tax practices.

For more details, please see the different practice areas below.

PLC Cross-border Handbooks 2008/2009 - Tax

In one of our core practice areas, several P+P partner are named for their expertise. P+P Munich partner Reinhard Pöllath is leading due to his "sound expertise in tax, focusing on international M&A and investment matters, as well as advising within the family-office practise." Berlin partner Thomas Töben is recognised for his tax expertise in general corporate transactions, while Munich partner Michael Best is a recognised practitioner for the private equity taxation field.

PLC Cross-border Handbooks 2008/2009 - M&A / Corporate

P+P founding partner Reinhard Pöllath is leading in the field of corporate/M&A. His expertise deals with "all elements of M&A advice undertaken, including transaction management". In addition, Matthias Bruse is recommended for his wide practice knowledge, as he "represents private and public businesses, advising on M&A and also private equity-driven transactions".

PLC Cross-border Handbooks 2008/2009 - Real Estate

Stefan Lebek, P+P partner in Berlin, is recommended for his "in-depth knowledge of all aspects of real estate, including sales, project development, construction, commercial leases and joint ventures."

PLC Cross-border Handbooks 2008/2009 - Private Client

This respected publication names P+P Berlin partnerAndreas Richter a highly recommended lawyer for private clients in Germany. He is portrayed as "broad private client practitioner, with a significant international practice. He specialises in the structuring of foundations and family offices, emigration and exit taxation and Anglo-Saxon trust structures".

PLC Cross-border Handbooks 2008/2009 - Private Equity

This international publication has articles on laws by country and rankings of leading lawyers. According to PLC, P+P partners are among the worldwide leaders in the areas of buyouts and venture capital and are highly recommended for their fund formation practice. P+P Frankfurt partner Andreas Rodin is "highly regarded in the market as a private equity fund structuring specialist", as well as for his buyout practice, while Matthias Bruse is noted for his competence in buyouts and venture capital. Reinhard Pöllath is known as a "vastly experienced transactional lawyer who enjoys a reputation as a prominent rainmaker". Finally, Wolfgang Tischbirek is recognized for his tax expertise on cross-border acquisitions, reorganisations, real estate investments and other transactions.

JUVE Handbook 2008/2009 (Germany)

P+P has an excellent reputation in its core practice areas M&A, transactions and asset management. As such, seven partners are considered as 'leading' in their practice area, Reinhard Pöllath even in more than one category. Reinhard as well as Andreas Richter are leading for their practice on advising private clients. Furthermore, Reinhard together with Richard Engl (Munich) and Thomas Töben (Berlin) belong to the Germany-wide leading tax advisors. Stefan Lebek (Berlin office) is a leading lawyer for real estate business issues, while Matthias Bruse (Munich) is a well-known and leading expert for his private equity transaction practice.
Its focus on mid-cap transactions makes P+P one of the best addresses in this area. P+P partners are mostly well-reputed in more than one practice area, e.g. Reinhard Pöllath as a dealmaker in M&A and also as top counsel for succession and entrepreneurship families. Likewise, Matthias Bruse is becoming firmly established as a specialist for entrepreneurship families but also is a strong name in the M&A market. Andreas Rodin's combination of expertise on private equity, fund structuring and tax-related issues makes him particularly popular in the tax and private equity field.
In M&A, P+P Munich partners especially dominate the national mid-cap private equity market: In addition to Reinhard Pöllath and Matthias Bruse, Andrea von Drygalski, Philipp von Braunschweig and Otto Haberstock ("competent, superior") are highly recommended by both clients and competitors.
On succession and family office, none of the competitors is comparatively as potent as P+P due to the strong orientation on private equity, M&A and real estate. All specialists are leaders in their fields: Reinhard Pöllath, Matthias Bruse, Andreas Richter and Andreas Rodin. The extraordinary combination of legal and tax advice on transactions, asset management and real estate ensure P+P a prime position on the market.
This remarkable reputation also extends to the tax sector: Richard Engl adds corporate group taxation to P+P's tax competencies and is mainly responsible for the excellent tax reputation of the Munich office ('one of the top names in group taxation', competitor). Other highly esteemed advisors in the tax segment are Andreas Rodin, Thomas Töben, Michael Best and Wolfgang Tischbirek for investments and projects of large private fortunes.
'A new star is born' says a competitor of Michael Inhester with regard to his private equity and venture capital expertise. Although one of the younger partners, step-by-stepMichael is playing a leading role as a specialist in private equity and venture capital. Accordingly, his long-term connection to the venture capital scene in Munich ensures stable client relationships and mandates. Matthias Bruse is a leading name in private equity and Andrea von Drygalski, Otto Haberstock, Philipp von Braunschweig, Andreas Richter und Benedikt Hohaus ('management adviser par excellence', competitor) are also frequently recommended for private equity matters.
Finally, due to the particular combination of tax expertise and specialization on fund structuring the P+P Berlin office is still going strong. The real estate segment remains successful with a series of deals in Berlin. Stefan Lebek 'continues to dominate the capital', but Carsten Führling and Matthias Durst also have a reputation as real dealmakers for their competent advice on real estate matters.

Tax Directors Handbook 2009 - The essential guide to the world's premier tax law firm

This publication highlights the top 250 individual tax advisers in the world. P+P contributes three well-known names to this premier league: Richard Engl, P+P partner in Munich, who is well-reputed in the market for cross-border corporate tax planning and tax audit defense, and P+P Berlin partner Thomas Töben, whose communication skills paired with his domestic and international tax expertise make him one of the most popular tax advisers worldwide.Andreas Rodin, P+P partner in Frankfurt, is not only well known for his tax expertise but also for his private equity and fund structuring practice. All in all, P+P "…has an excellent tax practice … [and has] …built up particular expertise in fund formation and the tax-related issues that arise during a fund's lifetime…"

IFLR 1000 - The Guide to the World's Leading Private Equity Firms 2009

"For its relative size, P+P Pöllath + Partners commands a huge amount of respect from the market. …Clients say they are very satisfied with the service they get from the firm…" P+P Munich partner Matthias Bruse is "highly regarded" and mentioned as a leading lawyer in the private equity practice area. Founding partner Reinhard Pöllath and associate Bernd Graßl were also named, along with Matthias Bruse, in particular for their advice to the WAZ group on its sale of 25% holding in the Otto group to the Otto family.

IFLR 1000 - The Guide to the World's Leading Financial Law Firms 2009

P+P is honored to have been selected and portrayed once again for private equity in this unique guide. Rankings are based on the recommendations of in-house counsel at the world’s most prominent financial institutions and companies, as well as the leading lawyers in each legal jurisdiction.

The Legal Media Group Guide to the World's Leading Private Equity Lawyers 2008

In the 2008 edition, five of seven hand-picked lawyers in Germany are P+P partners. Reinhard Pöllath, Andreas Rodin, Matthias Bruse, Otto Haberstock and Philipp von Braunschweig thereby belong to the world's leading experts and top practitioners advising on private equity law.

The Legal Media Group Guide to the World's Leading Real Estate Lawyers 2008

Stefan Lebek, P+P partner in Berlin, is selected to be one of the portrayed advisors in this special guide, for which more than 4,000 questionnaires of senior practitioners or in-house counsels are compiled and updated every second year.

WHO'SWHOLEGAL - The International Who's Who of Business Lawyers 2008

In the current Corporate Tax edition, 28 lawyers in all were listed in the German section. No other law firm had more names mentioned than P+P, with highly reputed tax experts Reinhard Pöllath and Richard Engl (Munich), Andreas Rodin and Wolfgang Tischbirek (Frankfurt), and Thomas Töben (Berlin).

JUVE Handbook 2008: German Commercial Law Firms 2008 - Analysis of Europe's Largest Legal Market

In general, P+P is seen as a specialist in private equity, M&A and tax, but is also strong in real estate. Some lawyers have an excellent market reputation in multiple practice areas, e.g. Matthias Bruse and Andrea von Drygalski are "…enjoying a place at the top of the German market" for their M&A and private equity practice, but the younger generation is also very promising, "…generating a steady flow of midsized transactions, with which barely any other firm can keep up." In real estate, the Berlin office has a very good reputation: Stefan Lebek (a "driving force"), Carsten Führling and Dr. Matthias Durst are praised for their real estate practice. In private equity and venture capital, P+P has an "…outstanding reputation for advice to management, fund structuring …few competitors enjoy such a good standing and market presence in this field... Andreas Rodin for fund structuring (is) not only a specialist himself, he has also developed an outstanding team." In company succession and trusts, Reinhard Pöllath and Andreas Richter are mentioned as leading names for advice to high-net-worth individuals. As such,Reinhard Pöllath is also mentioned as one of 10 leading senior partners in M&A and tax. P+P "boasts outstanding transaction lawyers as well as excellent tax specialists". In M&A, Matthias Bruse, Andrea von Drygalski, Andres Schollmeier, Philipp von Braunschweig, Otto Haberstock are also recommended. Furthermore, all of these lawyers, including Benedikt Hohaus for management advice and Frank Thiäner, are highly recommended for PE and VC. "In terms of the deal flow in the midcap field, P+P can lay claim to the top spot in the market." In tax, Richard Engl and Reinhard Pöllath are mentioned as leading senior partners, Thomas Töben is named a leading partner (age 41-50). By offering transactional as well as ongoing tax advice to funds and their management (tax investigations, compliance), P+P represents an "absolute niche field".

Chambers Europe 2008

P+P is mentioned in six categories, mostly with more than one partner. In fund formation, P+P is clearly seen as "a leader in the market, this firm's private equity practice successfully combines fund structuring with transactional work, performing at the highest level in both areas." P+P is recognised as an "…excellent firm with vast experience in the market and a full grasp of it's requirements" and "…highly reputed for its individual approach and personal advice". According to peers, P+P is "highly regarded among competitors for its excellence in private equity" and "…continues to enjoy an enviable position … Clients agree in giving it [P+P] full marks for the advice it provides in the areas in which it specialises". In real estate practice, "the consensus among interviewees is that this is 'one of the most improved domestic teams in the market'". In the tax area, P+P is "known for its extraordinary expertise in all things related to private equity, …. It adopts an attitude that is perfectly right, neither too aggressive nor too conservative".

This extraordinary standing is generated by the high quality work of P+P partners. Reinhard Pöllath "…remains a respected name in the private equity market" and "…holds a great reputation within the market." Matthias Bruse is considered to be "an extraordinary transactional lawyer with huge amounts of experience" and is "recognised as one of the most prominent lawyers in the country." With Michael Inhester, one of the 'youngblood-partners' gains more and more prestige. He is "lauded by peers as 'a good dealmaker and an excellent all-round lawyer… who is making a name for himself' … [and] praised for his diligent and proactive approach". Matthias Durst is mentioned in the real estate sector as a "…talented and hard-working lawyer, who is also admired by peers for his 'good-natured approach to negotiations.'". In tax practice, Thomas Töben is described as "a fine individual with a hands-on approach to his work, who will work tirelessly until he gets the job done." Michael Best "… is often brought into high-profile transactions as the tax specialist … he is said to be 'one of the promising younger faces' at the firm." According to the market, Andreas Rodin is "the number one fund structure specialist in Germany. Described as 'an outstanding practitioner with profound knowledge and more than 20 years of experience', he divides his time between fund structuring and tax advice… [He] has built an extraordinary reputation over the last 20 years …as one of the leading fund structuring lawyers … He has been characterized … as 'a true professional who is astoundingly energetic and superbly informed, and who can deliver quality end results regardless of the pressures involved."

The Legal 500

P+P is lauded in the fields of corporate and M&A, private equity, investment funds, real estate and construction and tax. In general, P+P wins praise as "…one of the strongest private equity practices in Germany for, in particular, fund structuring... The firm has built up particular expertise in fund formation and the tax-related issues that arise during a fund's lifetime… The investment funds team at P+P is staffed by outstanding experts, who are very specialised in funds structuring. Led by Andreas Rodin, …who is excellent, brilliant, and consistently good". Clients are impressed by his "…great experience on fund taxation". He is "…one of the few layers to combine legal and tax expertise in fund work in Germany." Amos Veith and Michael Inhester were mentioned for their "…pragmatic and skilled" advice in private equity matters. Philipp von Braunschweig is someone who knows what he is doing in transactions, while Reinhard Pöllath is one of the most experienced lawyers in Germany for tax work. Clients appreciate …that the firm is strong in advising on the tax aspects of transactions [and has an] …excellent tax practice,…bolstered by Richard Engl, who has experience in cross-border corporate tax planning and tax audit defence and is admired for his no-nonsense approach in the area of transfer pricing and reorganisations". Thomas Töben is complimented for his "very good communication skills." P+P also has a strong real estate practice and Matthias Durst is "…singled out by clients for being hands-on, pragmatic and solution-oriented, while Carsten Führling and Stefan Lebek are considered to be excellent and efficient and Wolfgang Tischbirek… has special expertise in real estate and tax."

The Legal Media Group: The Best of the Best 2008

In this international survey, Matthias Bruse and Reinhard Pöllath are portrayed as belonging to 'the Best of the Best 2008'. Matthias is one of five German lawyers mentioned in the private equity area and Reinhard is one of two luminaries acknowledged for his tax expertise.

The Legal Media Group: Guide to the World's Leading Mergers and Acquisitions Lawyers 2008

This international expert guide, known for its extensive research, selected Reinhard Pöllath and Matthias Bruse to be portrayed in their guide. More than 4,000 questionnaires were compiled, analysed and screened for firm, network and alliance bias. The list of experts is then discussed and refined with advisers in legal centres worldwide.

AZUR Anwaltskarriere 2008

P+P is ranked in the top twenty as one of the TOP 50 employers for lawyers in Germany, with an excellent market reputation for M&A lawyers as well as tax advisors. Associates rank P+P at place 15 of the TOP 50 and praise P+P as a "true alternative to a large firm".

WHO'S WHO LEGAL Private Funds 2008

P+P partner Matthias Bruse and upcoming partner Patricia Volhard are praised as "superb colleagues" of Andreas Rodin, who is recommended as 'truly excellent' and listed as one of the 'most highly regarded individuals'. As such, no other German law firm is mentioned in this international ranking.

WHO'S WHO LEGAL Corporate Tax 2008

The jury of Corporate Tax 2008 highlights that "…P+P has the strongest contingent in the country, with a team of five making the final publication". Reinhard Pöllath is named as one of the "most highly regarded individuals" and praised as "a 'leading' practitioner and 'very well known' according to rivals. Andreas Rodin in Frankfurt, a 'prolific speaker and author' joins Pöllath as 'a big name' in the market." This singular reputation also accompanies Richard Engl, noted on a number of occasions, and "…well recognised by independent rankings as one of Germany's leading senior tax advisers". He is specialised in restructuring and "…does a great deal of post-acquisitions reorganisation for national and international clients. Wolfgang Tischbirek in Frankfurt is especially knowledgeable when it comes to real estate investments and transactions and the tax aspects of asset management and estate planning. He is also 'an expert' in tax planning for both domestic and foreign investors and in the structuring of cross-border acquisitions and reorganisations." Last but not least, Thomas Töben, based in P+P's Berlin office, is mentioned for his advice on the restructuring and reorganisation of businesses and partnerships, M&A transactions, taxation of real property investments, cross-border leasing and the privatisation of state-owned companies.

ITR – World's leading tax transactional practices

International Tax Review nominated P+P as one of the top firms in the field of tax transactional practice in Germany. Tax transactional practice includes M&A and capital markets work in addition to transfer pricing, indirect taxes and tax structuring. The results were compiled from an international poll, executed in three continents. This confirms the leading position of P+P in tax and M&A, also acknowledged by other international and national surveys.

PLC Which lawyer? Yearbook 2008 – Legal market analysis

PLC praises P+P as one of the dominant law firms in some of the key corporate and financial sectors. Reinhard Pöllath is mentioned as one of the "national frontrunners" in M&A and is classified as a highly recommended individual not only in tax, but also in private equity and corporate/M&A. Andreas Rodin and Matthias Bruse are also mentioned as highly recommended individuals - Andreas for his expertise in private equity/fund formation and buyout practice and Matthias for his know-how in private equity buyouts and tax. As such, P+P is ranked as one of the leading law firms in the private equity sector and is recommended in corporate real estate (Berlin partner Stefan Lebek), as well as highly recommended in corporate/M&A and fund formation.

WHO'S WHO LEGAL Internet & E-Commerce 2008

Dr. Margot von Westerholt is recommended for her practice work in the fields of Internet and e-commerce law. She focuses on information technology, IP-related transactions, license agreements and distribution law.

Margot was a long-term partner at the German firm Linklaters in Munich before she joined P+P’s Munich office as a partner in 2005. She began her career as a civil law judge at the Munich District Court.

WHO'S WHO LEGAL Real Estate 2008

Stefan Lebek, partner in P+P Berlin's office, is nominated for his real estate practice. The nominees have been selected based upon comprehensive, independent survey work and were listed only if they have met the independent international research criteria.

P+P Law Firm of the Year 2007

On 11 October 2007 P+P won Deutsche unquote’s inaugural Private Equity Award as Law Firm of the Year. The award was open to law firms active in the German/Austrian/Swiss private equity area (either in fund construction or transaction services), which have demonstrated consistent excellence throughout 2006. Key criteria the judges were looking for included efficiency of execution, sector knowledge, advisory and negotiating skills, value-adding capability, vision and the overall development of the business. Additionally for this category, the judges were looking for evidence the division has provided novel advice to clients, citing aspects of specific deals within the year.

PLC Cross-border Handbooks 2007/2008 - Private Equity

Reinhard Pöllath  "…enjoys a reputation as a prominent rainmaker" and is portrayed as a "vastly experienced transactional lawyer".  P+P partner Andreas Rodin (Frankfurt) is mentioned in the German private equity – fund formation and private equity – buyout sections as "…highly regarded in the market as a private equity fund structuring specialist". Matthias Bruse, P+P partner in Munich, is described as an "established dealmaker known for his involvement in major private equity-backed buyouts.”

JUVE Handbook 2007/2008

P+P is ranked in the first half of the TOP 50 law firms in Germany, although a niche boutique and specialized in M&A (particularly in combination with PE and VC), real estate, fund-structuring, foundations and tax. With Richard Engl as a new partner in the tax business,  P+P has the chance to become more important in the fields of corporate tax planning.

In addition to such well-known senior partners as Reinhard Pöllath, Matthias Bruse, Andreas Rodin, Otto Haberstock, Andres Schollmeier, Philipp von Braunschweig, Benedikt Hohaus, Michael Inhester and Andrea von Drygalski, the new and upcoming partners are gaining in importance: Andreas Richter as forward looking specialist with his unique combination of asset structuring and private equity, Stefan Lebek as a driving force in real estate and Frank Thiäner as an upcoming partner in the M&A business.

Legal 500 Germany, 2007 - 2008

Legal 500 recommends P+P especially in the fields of real estate, including project development and tax aspects, M&A and private equity practice and fund-structuring. In this context, Andreas Rodin is emphasized as the "fund-structuring guru" and Matthias Bruse praised for his perceptive transaction practice. P+P is very strong in combining its outstanding tax practice with other fields such as M&A, private equity and fund-structuring.

World Tax 2008 The comprehensive guide to the world's leading tax firms

Reinhard Pöllath named as "incredibly knowledgeable" M&A specialist